Your Challenge
Did you know the Woodland Trust gives away free trees to schools and community groups? Resident associations, sports clubs, parish councils, Scouts, Guides and many more are eligible to receive a free tree. So:
- Get together with your neighbours.
- Find a suitable place to start planting.
- Then visit the Woodland Trust’s website to apply for a free tree to plant in your community.
- You just need to make sure the land is public and that the community is aware of the planting.
- If you’re thinking about planting a tree in your garden, take a look at their online shop to see what they advise for your area and your size requirements.
One of the benefits of going through the Woodland Trust is that they will make sure you’re planting the right species in the right area. If you’re looking to plant a tree, it’s essential to make sure it’s going to help biodiversity in your area, not risk harming it by planting things like invasive, non-native species.
Why you're doing this
The total number of trees has fallen by almost half since the start of human civilisation [1] . Trees have many benefits: they provide habitat and food for many species, reduce flooding and provide shade. They are also some of our biggest defenders against climate change, as they soak up and store CO2.
How you'll make a difference
Planting a tree in your community is a great way to encourage greener spaces in your area, reduce the effects of pollution and support wildlife, and it’s something the whole family can get involved with.